Netflix viewers are engrossed in a gripping mini-series that depicts a shocking real-life disaster, often consuming it ‘in one sitting’.
The popular streaming platform frequently updates its library, replacing some content to introduce fresh options. A recent TV series has mesmerized viewers with its meticulous portrayal of a true maritime catastrophe that stunned Europe.
On January 14, 1993, the ill-fated MS Jan Heweliusz sank in the Baltic Sea, resulting in the loss of at least 56 lives. As the deadliest peacetime maritime disaster in Polish history, it left nine survivors.
The ferry left Świnoujście two hours late, en route to Ystad, Sweden.
During the journey, the vessel encountered extremely severe weather, with storm conditions producing winds up to 160 km per hour and waves reaching six meters high.
As the storm raged on, the ship started to list, leaning heavily to one side.
Factors like previous repairs, a large cargo load, and damage to the ferry’s stern led to the vessel’s capsizing.
At approximately 4am, the listing became ‘serious’, and by 5.12am, the ship had capsized and sank around 24 km from Cape Arkona, near Germany’s Rügen Island.
The rapid listing and sinking meant that many lifeboats couldn’t be launched effectively; rescue operations were hampered by communication issues about the vessel’s location and the severe sea conditions.
Netflix has now brought this harrowing tale to the screen in a compelling five-episode drama.
The series, titled Heweliusz, has climbed into the global most-watched rankings, as reported by FlixPatrol.
Fans took to X to share their impressions of the drama.
One viewer commented on the surprising ‘diabolical’ corruption depicted in the series.
“Five hours of this series is just right for an afternoon,” another viewer remarked.
On IMDB, a user rated the series a ’10/10′, praising it as ‘authentic and convincing’.
“The Polish can act brilliantly, direct superbly and write a compelling storyline that will keep you on the painful edge of your seat,” they added.
Another described it as ‘a punch-packing, riveting series,’ while someone else admitted to watching the entire series ‘in one sitting.’
“Lost track of time, that’s how good the series was,” they shared. “Very carefully constructed episodes, that don’t drag.”
Heweliusz is currently available to stream on Netflix.